
Robert Garrova
I cover mental health at a time when L.A. — and the nation — is failing people who live with a serious mental illness. The L.A. County jail system is the de-facto mental health institution for our region, and people who want help with their mental health often can’t get it, even if they can afford it. I’ll work to help Angelenos understand how we got here and what reforms aim to change things. I’ll do this through the stories of people struggling with their own mental health and those trying to get care for a loved one.
My reporting has taken me to the edge of wildfires in California, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, steps away from a robot that’s now exploring Mars, and into the homes of countless Angelenos.
I’ve had many jobs in radio. I used to help produce and direct the flagship show for Marketplace, a daily business and economic news show. I also spent a couple years in the Northeast working as a reporter. I found my love of audio journalism while interning on LAist's (formerly KPCC’s) Off-Ramp in 2013.
I was born and raised in SoCal. I’m most proud when my journalism can help raise the voices of people struggling in this beautiful region stricken by inequality.
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The county CEO’s plan proposes spending $4.3 million to “accommodate demand for the Department of Mental Health’s outreach, engagement, and crisis response,” among other efforts.
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Organizers say 100% of proceeds will go to humanitarian aid in Ukraine.
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The prominent Democratic Party fundraiser was found guilty of providing methamphetamine to two men who overdosed and died at his apartment.
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The so-called Peer Advisory Council will have 15 members who will give the Mental Health Department guidance on its programs.
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Some government transparency advocates say it’s time to bring back in-person meetings, while still keeping the conveniences of virtual public participation.
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Concerned that the existing infrastructure is insufficient to meet the anticipated demand, a group of lawmakers has introduced legislation seeking more funding.
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Many EV industry watchers believe the current price hikes due to high demand and gas prices will be temporary.
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A judge ruled the video could be released as part of a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of 38-year-old Edward Bronstein, who died after a DUI stop in 2020.
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Superintendent Alberto Carvalho has expressed support for aligning with L.A. County, which no longer requires masks for indoor settings.
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Library staff say it could become a place to connect to mental health resources — and that contracting with professionals and social workers could allow them to help visitors experiencing a crisis.